Panama Files UN Complaint Over Trump’s Threat to Seize Canal

Panama's President, Jose Raul Mulino, has officially filed a complaint with the United Nations in response to U.S. President Donald Trump's assertion that the Panama Canal was a gift from the United States. Mulino emphasized Panama's sovereignty and its ownership of the canal, reinforcing that it does not belong to the U.S. Speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Mulino rejected any form of foreign interference and reiterated his country's commitment to neutrality. In addition to the complaint, Panama is auditing port operators linked to Hong Kong, amid rising tensions surrounding the canal. The situation has garnered international support, with both Russia and China backing Panama's stance and advocating for adherence to international law. Meanwhile, Greenland's Prime Minister, Múte Egede, has also spoken out against U.S. acquisition threats, calling for self-determination in the context of escalating tensions in the Arctic.

Rudiger Koch, a 59-year-old German aerospace engineer, has set a new world record for the longest time spent living underwater without depressurisation, spending a remarkable 120 days in a submerged capsule off the coast of Panama. Koch emerged from his 30-square-meter home located 11 meters underwater on January 25, 2025, celebrated by Guinness World Records adjudicator Susana Reyes. Koch's achievement surpassed the previous record of 100 days set by American Joseph Dituri, who lived in an underwater lodge in Florida. After his record-breaking stay, Koch expressed a mix of excitement and regret, stating, "It was a great adventure and now it’s over there’s almost a sense of regret actually." He enjoyed the unique beauty of the underwater environment, describing the calming dark waters and glowing sea. During his time underwater, Koch's capsule was equipped with basic modern amenities, including a bed, toilet, TV, and internet access, with plenty of food delivered by visitors. He was also monitored 24/7 by cameras to ensure he remained below the surface for the entire duration of the record attempt. Koch hopes that his record will encourage people to consider the seas as a viable environment for human expansion and habitation. He celebrated his achievement with champagne and a cigar before being taken back to shore, where a party awaited him.

Panama is facing a wave of unease following United States President Donald Trump's remarks during his second inauguration, where he threatened to "take back" the Panama Canal, reigniting fears of U.S. military intervention similar to the 1989 invasion. The comments have prompted diplomatic efforts and controversy in the Latin American nation, which regained control of the canal in 1999. Panamanian officials have firmly rejected Trump's claims of Chinese influence over the canal's operations, with Ilya Espino de Marotta, deputy administrator of the Panama Canal, highlighting the autonomous management by Panamanians. "We are an autonomous entity," she stated, encouraging officials from the U.S. to visit and witness the transparency of operations. Trump's rhetoric has raised concerns among Panamanians, with many recalling the historical context of U.S. military actions in the country. Former President Martín Torrijos emphasized that the era of U.S. military dominance in Panama has ended, noting, "The times where the U.S. had a military presence in Panama – that finished on December 31, 1999." Despite the low likelihood of military action, Panama's economy, which relies significantly on the canal, remains at risk due to potential U.S. economic pressure. The announcement of audits on ports involved in canal operations, including those owned by a Hong Kong-based company, adds another layer of tension. With Secretary of State Marco Rubio expected to visit the region soon, discussions surrounding the canal and U.S.-Panama relations are likely to continue. As Panamanians grapple with these developments, sentiments range from fear to defiance, with some officials hopeful for constructive dialogue while others express anger at external threats to their sovereignty.